Common Myths about STEM Education Debunked

Today’s rapid advancement in technology has opened many doors in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), making it more popular than ever. However, while many of our young ones dream about and work towards a career in STEM due to its high demand and superior benefits offered, others hold back owing to a number of myths about STEM education. Let’s debunk at some of those myths so you can put your little one on the right course of education and eventually, a lucrative career path:

You Need To Be a Science or Math Geek to Pursue STEM Education

While the importance of basic knowledge and skills pertaining to science and math in STEM cannot be overlooked, no book says you have to be an absolute genius to get the hang of it. We all have our fears and struggles in a certain subject. If your kid is genuinely interested in STEM, identify and focus on the skills he/she actually understands and enjoy doing instead of fretting over what they don’t know.

Your Career Options Will Be Restricted To Your Specific STEM Education

The assumption that choosing a specific STEM degree will restrict your kid’s career options to that particular field is false. If your kid is really thinking about pursuing a career that is not entirely related to your undergraduate study, think about your options after graduation to get hold of the dream job you want, the options are diverse. For example, my kid was a physics prodigy but is now pursuing a career in filmmaking, and I couldn’t be prouder.

For instance, after completing an undergraduate degree in biology, your kid can go for a PhD in botany, and work his/her way towards becoming a plant philanthropist. Similarly, after completing environmental studies, your kid can get a Master’s degree in chemistry to secure a career in environmental chemistry.

STEM Education Does Not Lead To Innovative Jobs

When we think about STEM, most of us picture a scenario where researchers spend hours scribbling down complex formulas on chalkboards or mixing chemicals all the while hovering over different beakers. Although this scenario is indeed part of STEM jobs, there are a vast number of other creative jobs, which are thoroughly enjoyable and satisfying. Examples include architecture, animation, and technology. If a research-based career is not your kid’s cup of tea, you can help them move towards a more dynamic and innovative career option.